The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association has welcomed Matthew Hill as its new Scientific Support Officer.
Image: Matthew Hill.
Matthew joins from the University of Portsmouth where he was a Research Associate working on trade data analysis. In his new role he will support OATA’s Scientific and Technical Advisor with analysis, research, and evaluation on a diverse portfolio of issues, including a review of current advice and guidance, identifying and researching knowledge gaps, and building OATA’s scientific evidence base.
Matthew gained a first class honours degree in marine biology at Portsmouth University before completing a Masters in Ecology and Conservation at Brighton University.
OATA Chief Executive Dominic Whitmee welcomed Matthew to the team: “Our sector is facing increasing pressures from the animal rights lobby so Matthew joins us at just the right time. There are a lot of issues that will keep Matthew busy so his scientific and analytical skills will be a valuable asset to the team and I very much look forward to working with him.”
Matthew Hill said: “The aquarium trade has been my main focus for the majority of my life and I’m really excited to start working with OATA. It is a brilliant opportunity for me to combine my passion for aquatics and my previous research experience to help try to solve real-world issues for the trade and give the best possible advice to hobbyists."
In his spare time, Matthew is currently breeding clownfish.